PALAGONITE Meaning and
Definition
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Palagonite is a term used in geology to describe a type of volcanic glass that is altered and hydrated by interaction with water. It is derived from the Greek word "palaios," meaning old, and "gonia," meaning angle, due to the characteristic angular shape of the mineral.
Palagonite is commonly formed as a result of the rapid cooling of lava when it comes into contact with water. This cooling process causes the outer layer of the lava flow to solidify, while the interior remains hot and molten. As water infiltrates into the still-hot lava, a rapid quenching occurs, resulting in the formation of palagonite.
The mineral itself is often a dark brown to black color and has a vitreous or glass-like luster. It typically exhibits well-formed crystalline structures, which are often angular or prismatic in shape. Palagonite has a characteristic spongy or pumice-like texture, and it is sometimes found encrusting or filling voids in volcanic rocks.
Palagonite is known for its ability to act as a catalyst for chemical reactions, facilitating the breakdown of minerals and the release of nutrients into the soil. It is often found in volcanic ash and can contribute to the fertility of volcanic soils.
Due to its unique properties and role in soil formation, palagonite is of great interest to scientists studying volcanic processes and the impacts of volcanic eruptions on the environment.
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A peculiar rock-product of a yellowish-brown colour occurring near modern volcanoes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PALAGONITE
- oalagonite
- lalagonite
- -alagonite
- 0alagonite
- pzlagonite
- pslagonite
- pwlagonite
- pqlagonite
- pakagonite
- paoagonite
- palzgonite
- palsgonite
- palwgonite
- palqgonite
- palafonite
- palavonite
- palabonite
- palahonite
- palayonite
- palatonite
Etymology of PALAGONITE
The word "palagonite" comes from the Greek word "palagón" (παλαγών), which means "a thick swamp or marsh". Palagón is derived from the Greek verb "palássō" (παλάσσω), meaning "to leap or bound". The suffix "-ite" is added to indicate a mineral or rock form. Therefore, "palagonite" refers to a type of volcanic ash or tuff that originates from the interaction of hot lava or magma with water, typically found in coastal or swampy areas.
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